Photo: Takahiro Nakanishi
Let's ask riders to share their impressions on the gear they use this winter.
This time, we'll introduce the favorite skis, boots, and bindings of freeskier Hidemitsu Okada, who mainly works in Hokkaido BC.
rider profile
Hidemitsu Okada 33 years old,
based in Hokkaido, active as a free skier. I often go out to the mountains with photographer Takahiro Nakanishi, mainly shooting in BC.
Set up by Hidemitsu Okada
Review of the entire setup
What kind of places and situations is this setup designed for?
This setup is designed for hard riding in BC.
Please tell me why you chose this setup.
In BC, you will encounter a variety of conditions, including hard snow and powder snow. This setup allows you to go to the line you want to go with complete confidence at any time. The balance between the composition of the board and the composition of the binding is very good.
ski impressions
VÖLKL REVOLT 114｜L=184cm｜D=146-114-128mm｜2023-24 model
What are your impressions of the performance and ride quality of this ski?
The sense of stability at medium and high speeds and above is outstanding. What's more, you can slide on the slopes with confidence, even in rough conditions, without any turbulence.
In addition to that, please let us know what you like about this ski, such as its design or other points.
It goes without saying that the punchy design is eye-catching, but its biggest appeal is that you can comfortably ski on everything from powder to rough conditions. The feeling of turning is amazing!
What kind of people is this ski recommended for?
Recommended for freeride skiers who want to ski at high speeds in all conditions.
If you ride this board, you will be able to ski at medium and high speeds more easily and enjoyably! But the flex of the board is hard, so don't forget to train your leg strength!
boots impression
What are your impressions of the performance and comfort of these boots?
It's a setup that can be used in tough conditions, so I'm always thinking about the power balance between the skis, bindings, and boots.
I choose boots that can reliably transmit power without succumbing to hard setups.
In addition to that, please let us know what you like about this gear, such as its design or one point.
This is the fit of the wrap full thermo liner. The shell is light, so hiking is stress-free, and you can follow your own line without hesitation when it comes to slipping.
What kind of people do you think these boots are recommended for?
I am an advanced freeride skier who is predicated on hiking.
Binding impressions
What are your impressions of the performance and feel of this binding?
I say the same thing over and over again, but it's about the balance of power.
I am conscious of the setup that brings out the maximum performance of skis, bindings, and boots.
In addition to that, please let us know what you like about this binding, such as its design or other points.
I sometimes describe myself as a "walking JESTER," and I don't think there's anything else that gives me a sense of stability when sliding!
What kind of people do you think this binding is recommended for?
Recommended for free skiers who ski aggressively.
Please tell me where to install the binding and why.
It is installed in the recommended position and is 78mm (according to Okada research) back from the core center of the ski.
The reason for placing it in this position is because VOLKL develops skis with riders under the theme of "built together," and we believe that it is the center that they have determined after conducting many tests.
